Breakaway oxidation behaviour of ferritic stainless steels at 1150°C in humid air

The breakaway oxidation behaviour of ferritic stainless steels 430, 443 and 445 has been investigated at 1150 °C in humid air. The oxidation kinetics exhibited significant differences among the three ferritic stainless steels. A uniform and steady growing oxide scale was developed on the 430 steel with an even steel/oxide interface. Local breakdown of the initially protective oxide scale occurred and oxide nodules were developed on the 443 and 445 stainless steels, resulting in irregular and rough steel/oxide interfaces. The breakaway oxidation behaviour was significantly influenced by the microstructure and the composition of the oxide scale. The Mn-Cr spinel oxide formed on top of the Cr2O3 scale in Mo alloying 445 steel can greatly minimise the Cr depletion.